- Shawnee National Forest
The best camping in Shawnee National Forest, IL
94% (27)
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Shawnee National Forest
Sonny Hills
Sonny Hills
100%
(77)
5.4mi from Shawnee National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
We live on 70 secluded acres adjoining the Shawnee National Forest area with some hiking opportunities, woods and water activities that we would love to share with you. Close to Garden of the Gods (10 min), RimRock, Pounds Hollow, Belle Smith Springs, Lusk Creek and other trails. We are in the middle of the Shawnee surrounded by trees, our own lake, you can hike around and walk the land in solitude, yet we are only 25 minutes to Harrisburg. The closest grocery/merchandise store is only 5 minutes away.
Cabin-2BR -1 Q, 1 K/1BA sleeps 4- possible 5, huge foot stool/table makes small bed. Completely modernized, with Heating/ac, full kitchen with dishwasher, microwave and refrigerator, coffee pot, grill, laundry, NO INTERNET. Fully equipped Kitchen with all cooking utensils, crock pot, toasters, dual flex brew coffeemaker, plates, silverware, as well as coffee, creamer, sugar, cooking oil, aluminum foil, and condiments. Large great room, with native sandstone fireplace, that has been converted to gas for easy lighting. Back deck has beautiful views of the lake and hills. Enjoy the large front porch that adjoins the back deck and wraps around 3/4 of the cabin. Secluded, private, Fire pit. Free firewood. Plenty of DVD's, and games. 2 night minimum.
Tent and RV camping sites: Shade and sunny areas available. RV pads for self-contained campers. One Electric space available. Water available from spigot and hose. No sewer. Porta-Potty on premises. No showers. No Internet. It is HIGHLY suggested that campers arrive at dusk or before sunset. Quiet hour starts at 10:00 pm. The drive is not lit, and the camp area also has no lights (better to see the stars). Contact us if arrival before nightfall is not possible and we can help guide you to the areas.
Pets and service dogs welcome with notice. All dogs and people Must be dog friendly (owner has 5 Irish Wolfhounds, and one small mix breed that runs the place). Dogs must have proof of vaccinations.
Creeks, hills, hiking trails, and private pond full of bluegill and bass. Kayaks, paddleboards, canoe and boat for your use. NO lifeguard on duty. Life preservers/jackets must be worn when around the pond.
All above activities are done at your own risk, children must be supervised.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$25
/ night
Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
100%
(10)
11mi from Shawnee National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience unparalleled privacy, seclusion, and the soothing sounds of nature during your stay in this expansive and distinctive retreat. Unlike any other private property in the vicinity, our land boasts an array of natural features including ponds, waterfalls, cliffs, bluffs, fields, forests, trails, and creeks scattered throughout.
With several trails branching out in all directions into the Shawnee National Forest, exploration opportunities abound. Each of our spacious campsites is thoughtfully designed to afford maximum privacy, ensuring a peaceful and undisturbed retreat into nature.
Just a short 5-10 minute drive down the road, Burden Falls awaits, offering a scenic natural wonder to explore. The Garden of the Gods, another iconic attraction, is a mere 15-20 minute drive away, inviting you to marvel at its breathtaking rock formations and panoramic vistas.
For added convenience and indulgence, homemade breakfast and lunch sandwiches are available upon request, allowing you to savor delicious meals without the hassle of preparation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and indulge in the ultimate retreat experience at our unique property.
ATTENTION- I allow animals, but they are NOT ALLOWED ON THE FURNITURE! If you let your animals on the couch/bed I will charge an extra fee for professional cleaning. Bring a dog bed/ cat bed etc.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$41
/ night
Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm
Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm
99%
(35)
21mi from Shawnee National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Off the Historic Goshen Trail that runs from mid-Illinois thru here to Alton, IL which is close to St.Louis, MO. Oldest house on the trail. 1922 farmhouse but homestead older than that.
Learn more about this land:
Tent or small camper welcome. Peaceful, farm work around you, fresh eggs available and friendly farmers. Firewood can be found in piles around the farm. Very quiet, wildlife crossings and lots of berries to pick.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
Red Gate Farm, LLC
Red Gate Farm, LLC
92%
(12)
25mi from Shawnee National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Red Gate Farm, LLC, a farm with a vision! We previously ran a very successful Hipcamp site at our previous property, but completely relocated and are starting fresh! We purchased 50 acres of GORGEOUS timbered property, with rolling forested hills, several creeks, trees towering over 100 feet tall, and abundant wildlife. It's absolutely perfect for Hipcamp!
Building a new farm (and Hipcamp program) from scratch takes time--years even, but we decided now is as a good a time as any to share our beautiful timber with Hipcampers looking for some peace and privacy. While the site itself will be groomed and set up as listed, the surrounding grass won't be perfectly green yet, there will still be a lot of dead-wood and natural debris around the sites, and trails are a bit rough and uneven. If you can overlook the "rustic" aspects though, and enjoy the beauty of the peace and quiet of just enjoying nature, as it has sat unmanaged for roughly 50 years around the sites, then you are likely to love every moment!
If you desire more adventure than just hanging around and enjoying nature, be sure to check out the additional experiences we offer here on the farm, as well as the entire surrounding area. Southern IL is made up of the Shawnee National Forest and multiple state parks and recreational areas. You can find a wide variety of activities to keep you busy! Even the local towns have much to offer, whether you enjoy fine dining, casual restaurants, antique shopping, or a nice theater production.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Tall Tree Lake
Tall Tree Lake
98%
(48)
30mi from Shawnee National Forest · 62 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a 220 acre family owned and operated campground in the middle of the Shawnee National forest. We love providing a safe, beautiful, peaceful, and central location for people to enjoy our beautiful area. Fishing and hiking are welcomed for all of our guests! Located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. Close proximity to Ferne Clyffe State Park, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and only a 10 minute drive from I-24.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$20
/ night
Grand Chain Vineyards
Grand Chain Vineyards
91%
(16)
38mi from Shawnee National Forest · 26 sites · Tents, RVs
The RV Resort at Grand Chain Vineyards features 25 full-hookup pull-thru campsites nestled in the center of Grand Chain Vineyards overlooking the Ohio River. Grand Chain Vineyards is a 60+ acre estate of rolling hills and vineyards overlooking the beautiful Ohio River with on-site Winery, RV Resort, Event Venue, Cabins & Rooms, and Restaurant "Due South" BBQ & Grill.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
The Art Farm
The Art Farm
98%
(201)
42mi from Shawnee National Forest · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The farm is women owned and operated. This 34 acres of rolling farmland, woods and pasture is surrounded by farmland and woodlands on all sides.
Enjoy nature. Watch wildlife. Listen to the birds singing. You will often see deer in the evenings.
Walk or drive to the main residence to enjoy the pool, hot tub and hot outdoor shower. (5 minute walk or 1 minute drive)
We have a few dedicated women's campouts each year, and some art-making workshops, retreats, and quilting weekends, too. Other times we are open and inclusive of all.
Native land of Chickasaw, Quapaw and Osage nations.
LGBTQ friendly. :)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
15 Acre Wood on Lake
15 Acre Wood on Lake
95%
(43)
43mi from Shawnee National Forest · 3 sites · Tents
300 feet behind our house is a fire pit, then 15 acres of wood. around an acre lake. We have a boat and you can swim. There's an out house (and use of the woods is ok too) .There is plenty of wood and plenty of forest fun. No motorized Vehicles allowed. No weapons. No hunting. We want to share our land with other lovers of the woods, plants and animals. Like good "scouts", we expect our campers to leave the site the way they find it, tidy . We have recycle and trash containers. There is a drinking water source at the house. Responsible use of alcohol is accepted but drugs or anything that impairs physical safety, is prohibited.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$25
/ night
Little Lusk Campground And Lodging
Little Lusk Campground And Lodging
100%
(1)
9.6mi from Shawnee National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
50 well shaded campsites with three ponds, a playground for the kids and horse trails in the middle of Shawnee National Forest. Stalls available. Come hike or camp with us and visit nearby attractions like Jackson Falls, Garden of the Gods, Bell Smith springs and much more.
6 bedroom lodge available to rent just a room or the whole thing. Each bedroom has a private bathroom, tv, microwave and mini fridge. Full kitchen and living space available with a huge stone fireplace right in the middle. (Office is located in the lodge)
We also provide primitive camping.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$15
/ night
Rock Hole Meadow
Rock Hole Meadow
100%
(1)
15mi from Shawnee National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled on an 8-acre rural property, we are in the process of transforming into a permanent primitive campground. New to Hipcamp and hosting, Committed to environmental stewardship, we prioritize eco-conscious practices such as reusing, recycling, and promoting the growth of native plant species. Each visit to our campground contributes to our mission of preserving this land for future generations.
Our property boasts a spacious meadow, ideal for star gazing, along with wooded campsites or meadow camping.
Please note that the meadow may become muddy during spring and winter season, so exercise caution when selecting your camping area. Additionally, a communal fire pit is available for those camping. Facilities include a porta-potty with no running water, with plans for future construction of bathrooms and showers.
Conveniently located just 5 minutes from Carrier Mills, Illinois, you can easily stock up on any necessities during your stay.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$16
/ night
Little Texas Farm and Lodge
Little Texas Farm and Lodge
100%
(3)
22mi from Shawnee National Forest · 1 site · Lodging
Located in the Southern Illinois Ozarks, this lodge and 600 acres are part of the Cache River Drainage area, an area recognized internationally as being ecologically unique. The Barn is located atop a limestone bluff; the property includes upland flora, wetland wildlife, row-crop fields, and has access on 2 sides to the Shawnee National Forest. Conveniently located to participate in the natural opportunities of S. Illinois.Learn more about this land:Bring the hot dogs and the beans, but leave the sleeping bag and tent behind. At Little Texas, you will spend your down-time in a 1600 foot, 3 BR, 3 bath lodge located 2/3 mile off the closest gravel road. Little Texas is a place for those who love the isolation of camping but also the amenities of a lodge/home. Full kitchen. Sleeps 8. Step outside for a view of the yard, the working windmill, the fields, trees, and the pond. Test your skill at sorting constellations from the spectacular array of stars. Located in Southernmost Illinois, the property sits on a limestone outcrop of the Ozarks which extend from Arkansas and Missouri across S. Illinois into westernmost Kentucky. Bordered on 2 sides by the 260,000 acre Shawnee National Forest, nature is literally just outside the door. When the hiker sits still, nature comes alive: deer, turkey, raccoons, skunks, beavers, and lots of birds.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$160
/ night
Updated Farmhouse In Private Setting!
Updated Farmhouse In Private Setting!
30mi from Shawnee National Forest · 1 site · Lodging
Take it easy at this unique and tranquil getaway. Watch beautiful sunsets and get close to nature while sitting on a west-facing patio or the large sitting porch complete with rocking chairs. You can definitely get away from it all here. Home sits in the middle of 120 acres of farmland now held in the Conservation Reserve Program which promotes wildlife habitat in beautiful Western Kentucky.
The space
This one-of-a-kind hideaway is for guests who want quiet, privacy, and a country setting. The house has been completely updated and offers the kind of getaway we all need from time to time!
Guest access
The house and the surrounding 2 acres are available to guests. The other 118 acres are reserved for wildlife habitat.
Other things to note
Although the farm is just 1 mile from the nearest highway, you will feel like you are much further away from the hustle and bustle. You can stay connected with our Starlink internet service even though you are in the country.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$159
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
W
William
November 2025
28 ft toy hauler
With pets
The peace and quiet and having the horses around was so cool and perfectly timed for the rest that I needed. The lodge is awesome and brings back scouting memories.
See more
Brie
November 2025
Tent
We had a nice time at Laura’s. Kindly showed us where everything was, was very respectful and we felt very safe there. The cats were adorable too!
See more
S
Sheldon
November 2025
19 ft campervan
Laura’s camp space was great. Perfectly flat for our van and very quiet. We had a lovely evening.
See more
A
Alex
November 2025
Tent
Even if you stay just one night to break up travel (as I did), I highly recommend the Art Farm. The spaciousness of the camp was a delight. I arrived at the property around 9 pm, and Laura graciously showed me a secluded site towards the back of the tract. The nearest camper was far away, and though it was mid-November when I stayed, I could still envision seclusion in a busier season. The land was well-maintained, and Laura offers a variety of camping spots. Paducah was also well worth seeing- a lovely town right along the Ohio River with several cool spots! I’ll be back!
See more
J
Jeff
November 2025
23 ft travel trailer
Great place to stay. Nice view. Staff were very friendly.
See more
M
Michael
November 2025
Tent
This place was fantastic! The host, Dick Wolfe, was so friendly and accommodating. He had a great campfire already going for us when we arrived. Plenty of extra firewood, access to electricity, and perhaps the cleanest portable bathroom I’ve ever seen. It’s a family business, and Dick makes you feel like you’re extended family. We will be back this way, and we’ll be camping here!
See more
E
Elizabeth
November 2025
Tent
I loved camping on Laura's land! Porta-potty, shower, and hot tub are all near the site. It looks quiet, and the view across the field was lovely!
See more
S
Samantha
October 2025
10 ft travel trailer
With pets
This was a perfect primitive camp for us! The area had plenty of privacy with a beautiful scenery. Early mornings, next to the woods gave a good spot to drink some coffee and watch the wildlife. Easily accessible, and not far from town if you needed to make a quick trip.
Communication with Laura was friendly, quick and easy.
Definitely saving this spot for our next trip in the area:)
See more
M
Michael
October 2025
Tent
This was my second stay and for good reason. Jennifer is accommodating, friendly and the space is just great!
See more
Hayley
October 2025
16 ft car
Beautiful, private campsite that is right next to the national forest. We had a wonderful night here!
See more
Beth
October 2025
Tent
This is a lovely camp site near a small pond and a 5 minute walk to a new and very clean out house. Our camp hosts were very hospital, friendly and accommodating. They brought us lots of fire wood as it was pretty cold when we stayed there. We spent many hours around the large fire ring just talking and enjoying the quiet. We did not have clear skies so we weren't able to take advantage of the star gazing, but the area is free from light pollution and the nearby field would give you lots of space to star gaze. I highly recommend this site.
See more
Megan
October 2025
Tent
We had an amazing time camping here! The host not only provided firewood, but also went above and beyond by building a fire for us while we were setting up out tent at dusk. So kind and welcoming! The property was beautiful, peaceful, and very well maintained. It felt like the safest place I've ever camped!! Would highly recommend this site!!
See more
L
Lorie
October 2025
1 night at The Art Farm
Tho cozy cabin was cozy! The place is lovely and peaceful. I enjoyed the fire pit and the millions of stars! I will be back when I can spend a few days.
Laura the host was so friendly and made sure I had everything I needed.
See moreT
Tim
October 2025
Tent
With kids
Amazing location and hospitality! Great hosts and feels like you have the National Forest and all its wonder to yourselves.
See more
M
Michael
October 2025
Tent
Loved staying here! I spent a total of four days in the woods and it was the perfect spot to stay in the evening. I especially loved that the tent area was shaded while the camping pit was just a few feet away under the open sky. I didn’t have a hammock with me, but wished that I did because there were so many great spots to hang it.
Having the shower was a blessing as well. It was great to be able to start the morning with a hot rinse.
See more
T
Tracey
October 2025
Tent
This was a lovely spot. It sits right on the edge of woods. The site was private and had a nice fire pit as well. The property was beautiful and the hosts were very helpful and accommodating. They provided firewood for the fire pit and sent helpful information about the area prior to check-in. We will definitely stay here again.
See moreL
Lisa
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Jennifer and John were amazing hosts! They were available whenever there were questions and the site was wonderful. Having more than enough room for a large group was a benefit and access to the pond and any firewood that was needed was a bonus. The porta potty was one of the cleanest I've seen and was close to the site. The site is about a 15 minute drive to the Garden of the Gods recreation area which is great as you are close by but not on top of a crowd of people. We camped with adults, a child, and a dog and everyone had a great time. I would highly recommend booking a trip to Sonny Hill and would love to come stay with Jennifer and John again in the future.
See more
Scott
October 2025
Tent
Tent camping here is great. The folks I met were all very friendly and helpful. The place is an operational farm with chickens, geese, horses and lots of cats. Directions were clear and straight forward. You are very close to the small town of Eldorado Illinois and they have a great pizza place, mimmos and the Mexican restaurant in town I was told is very good. Very unique experience camping on active farm. Enjoyed it very much.
See more
W
Wendy
October 2025
20 ft travel trailer
This is a lovely site with so many amenities! Delicious food at the lodge, incredible views from the winery, and a friendly staff who makes everyone feel welcome! This place is amazing!!
See more
C
Courtney
October 2025
Group trip
This was our second time coming here! Great place to stay!
See moreThe best camping in Shawnee National Forest, IL guide
Overview
About
Rambling across more than a quarter-million acres and nine counties in southernmost Illinois, Shawnee National Forest has ancient woodlands, rocky bluffs, lakes, and caves, all hemmed in by the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. Choose from more than 403 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, discover the dramatic sandstone cliffs of the Garden of the Gods, go rock climbing at Jackson Falls, or enjoy fishing and canoeing along the lakes and creeks. Campers can choose from nine campgrounds, two of which provide electric hook-ups, as well as dispersed camping in several areas of the forest.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for hikers: Garden of the Gods Recreation Area has 12 non-electric campsites with easy access to the popular hiking trails.
- Best for RVs: Lake Glendale Beach has 59 lakeside sites, 34 with electric hook-ups, plus showers and flush toilets.
- Best for equestrian campers: Camp Cadiz Campground is a tranquil spot with basic facilities and eight non-electric sites.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- All campgrounds at Shawnee National Forest are available on a first-come, first-served basis—advance reservations are not possible.
- Smaller sites may fill up quickly over summer and holiday weekends, so plan an early Friday arrival if possible.
When to go
Outdoor adventurers benefit from mild weather year-round in the Shawnee National Forest. Spring and fall are the most colorful times to explore, when trails bloom with wildflowers or shed a rainbow of fall foliage. Many hiking trails are accessible right through winter, but snowfall is possible in the coldest months, so dress accordingly. Camping is also possible year-round, although some campgrounds close from December through March.
Know before you go
- Shawnee National Forest is located in southernmost Illinois. Travel times depend on which part of the forest you’re traveling to, but most destinations are within a 2- or 2.5-hour drive of St. Louis.
- There is no admission fee to visit Shawnee National Forest, but camping fees may apply.
- Facilities include restrooms and picnic areas, but not much else—fill up on gas and pick up groceries from the nearest town before you enter the forest. Cell phone and GPS service is patchy throughout the forest.
- Accessible day-use areas, campsites, and restrooms are available at Shawnee National Forest.
94%
27 ratings · 4 reviews
Recommends
· November 2018
Very humid and alot of flies. Very beautiful and alot to see. If it is full there are many campgrounds in the area.
J
James G.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2018
The campsite overlooks the valley and there are incredible bluffs and geological features everywhere. It's so much fun to walk around and climb the rocks. I imagine fall would be great there when the leaves are changing on the trees below the bluffs.
Michael S.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2017
We stay every 4th, great campground. It's a traditional campground, mostly open campsites with all the amenities. Water at or close by, electric, maintained bathrooms w/showers. Fireworks over the lake are spectacular.
Melody G.
8 years on Hipcamp
December 2015
Wonderful campground with bathrooms and free showers for guests. A quick walk to the Lake with amazing sunsets! It was somewhere between $5-10 for a night which was well worth it for the large site with fire ring and picnic table. Would definitely recommend this campground!
Jenn F.
10 years on Hipcamp